Kinesiology Pre-College Program at UMass Amherst

For high school students passionate about health, fitness, and medicine, the Kinesiology: Pathway to the Medical Professions program at UMass Amherst offers a dynamic two-week summer experience. This immersive, in-person course introduces students to the diverse career pathways available in the health sciences through the lens of kinesiology—a discipline focused on the science of human movement.

Students will engage in introductory lectures, hands-on lab experiments, and community-based learning that explore topics such as physiology, biomechanics, nutrition, neuroscience, physical and occupational therapy, athletic training, and more. All participants will also earn CPR/AED certification.

Program Highlights:

• Gain working knowledge of muscles, bones, and movement science

• Assess personal fitness levels and create a personalized fitness plan

• Learn real-world therapy and mobility techniques used by medical professionals

• Explore nutrition strategies for sport and performance

• Discover academic and career pathways in kinesiology and healthcare

Program Details:

• Dates: June 29 – July 12, 2025

• Length: 2 weeks

• Format: In person (residential or commuter options)

• Schedule: Monday–Friday, 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM

• Student Profile: Rising sophomores through seniors

• Credits: 2

• Cost: $3,907 (Residential) | $2,262 (Commuter)

Important Notes: Students must bring a laptop and exercise clothes. Due to the physical nature of the course, a completed medical history and an informed consent form (with parent signature for students under 17) are required before attendance.

Whether you're interested in becoming a physical therapist, doctor, athletic trainer, or health researcher, this program offers an exciting and educational summer experience to help you explore the field and chart your future in healthcare. This is a fantastic opportunity to experience UMass Amherst from an academic perspective if they are on your list of prospective colleges as an athletic recruit. Begin your application!

At POLARIS Student Athlete Consulting, we specialize in helping student athletes and their families identify enrichment programs (like this one) that align with their interests, strengths, and long-term goals. Regardless of the field of study your student athlete is exploring, we provide personalized guidance to ensure they find experiences that not only strengthen their college applications but also provide meaningful preparation for life after high school. From application support to strategic planning, POLARIS is here to help your student athlete chart a purposeful and informed path forward.